Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area

The main attraction of Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area is Keaiwa Heiau, a temple that native Hawaiians would visit to be healed. Through prayers and herbs, the kahuna would help sick and injured people. Many of the herbs used were picked from the nearby area, however, in the 1920’s much of the surrounding land was replanted. Despite this many still believe in the power of the temple and leave offerings in hopes of curing themselves of ailments.

The ‘Aiea Loop Trail runs through the park (4.5 miles) and allows people to experience the lush flora including the fragrant lemon eucalyptus and pine trees. On the hike, also be on the look out for the remnants of a B-24 bomber that crashed in 1944.